Chapter Fifteen: Seeds of Doubt

In truth, Lady Bi’s question directed at Xu Ruojin was an oversight on her part. Xu Ruojin, who had devoted her previous life to the study of pharmacological theory, recognized the names Lady Bi mentioned. The way Madam Yang fawned over Lady Bi was unmistakable; her words had inadvertently brought up the county magistrate, suggesting Lady Bi’s connection to him.

No matter what Lady Bi said, Madam Yang’s response was invariably, “I don’t understand, I’ll follow your lead.” Lady Bi, as if considering the interests of the Xu family, focused only on her own attire without thought for hairpins or jewelry. It appeared so considerate, yet the real pitfall lay in her mention of “incense.”

What is incense? Ostensibly, it’s used for fragrance, but in reality, it’s no different from perfume. From the cheapest to the most extravagant, its price is impossible to fix. Xu Ruojin, trained in pharmacology, hadn’t seen the actual spices, but she knew their effects. With rare items like camphor wood or moon-lin incense, if she named something costly at random, would Madam Yang agree or refuse?

If Madam Yang gritted her teeth and complied, thinking it would curry favor with the county magistrate or some official, Lady Bi could easily dismiss responsibility, claiming it was simply the price of spices and had nothing to do with the magistrate. Madam Yang would be left at a loss. And if Xu Ruojin chose an expensive spice, she would be the ultimate victim, with Madam Yang likely to take it out on her.

Xu Ruojin’s mind raced swiftly. Lady Bi, seeing her silent, smiled with satisfaction, poised to press the matter of incense further. Just as Lady Bi was about to speak, Xu Ruojin smiled gently. “I do know a little about these fragrances, but only from books. I’m not sure if my knowledge is accurate.”

“Oh? Why don’t you tell us?” Lady Bi’s surprise faded, her smile becoming more composed, and her gaze steadier.

Madam Yang glared fiercely at Xu Ruojin, furious at her disruption. She wanted to scold her, but Madam Huang intervened.

Before outsiders, embarrassing their second young lady would only worsen her reputation, especially with the Zhang family. Better to let her speak, whether right or wrong, so Madam Yang could later justify any reprimand. Besides, Madam Huang sensed Lady Bi’s cunning, and was impressed at how quickly the second young lady responded.

Ignoring Madam Yang’s anger, Xu Ruojin turned to Lady Bi and spoke slowly:

“Camphor’s outer layer is dark brown and bitter, with a cool sensation. Canaan incense is purple-brown, with a rich fragrance. Storax is yellowish-white, aromatic, with a hint of bitterness and spice. Then there’s the legendary ambergris, supposedly a secretion from an animal’s gut—an extremely rare medicinal ingredient, said to treat coughs, chest tightness, and abdominal pain. Its scent is gentle and lingers long, truly priceless, though I’ve only heard of it.

I’m most curious about a grayish-white granular spice, called benzoin, which is fragrant and can treat fainting from strokes, with the effect of opening the mind and regulating blood.

Since falling into the water, I often grow dizzy. This spice seems perfect for me. Lady Bi, do you happen to possess it?”

Her words stunned everyone. Madam Yang stared at her, mouth agape, her expression complex. Madam Huang’s eyes widened. Lady Bi, after a brief pause, noticed the shock on everyone’s faces. Her brows furrowed as she scrutinized Xu Ruojin, forcing a smile that was meaningful and deep.

“Miss Ruojin is quite knowledgeable. It was presumptuous of me to take charge. Please don’t take offense.”

“I only read about these in books—never seen or used them. I spoke only to seek your guidance, Lady Bi. As for the incense used in fabrics, I must rely on your expertise. If I tried myself, I’d likely burn or spoil it.”

Xu Ruojin uncovered the trap, feigned innocence with a playful gesture, and stepped back, saying no more.

“Madam Xu, your second young lady is no ordinary girl! No wonder Master Yan personally acted as matchmaker. I truly envy you, hahaha…”

Lady Bi’s hearty laughter dispelled the awkwardness. She beckoned the seamstress, who handed over a small pouch. Lady Bi indicated, “This bag contains fragments of various spices. Normally, these should be blended several times before use. If Miss Ruojin is interested, keep it and experiment. Should you devise a good recipe, I hope you won’t mind me coming to ask for it.”

She handed over a palm-sized sachet. Madam Yang, relieved, smiled and said to Xu Ruojin, “Lady Bi has been most generous. You silly girl, aren’t you going to thank her?”

Xu Ruojin stepped forward, accepted the sachet with both hands, and expressed her gratitude. Lady Bi didn’t linger, rising to address Madam Yang:

“It’s getting late; I must return. My shop awaits, such is my fate—always busy. As for Miss Ruojin’s attire, Madam Xu need not worry. Since it’s entrusted to me, I’ll ensure your satisfaction. The county magistrate has spoken on the matter; if I dared neglect it, I’d be risking my head!”

Lady Bi’s words delighted Madam Yang, who replied warmly, “Of course! Who could doubt you? Let me see you out.”

Madam Yang gestured to Madam Huang, who promptly handed her a bundle of silver, which Madam Yang slipped into Lady Bi’s sleeve. The bribe was exchanged without a soul noticing.

Xu Ruojin followed, full of inward sighs. Spring Grass whispered behind her, “Second Miss, you… you were amazing, saying so much!”

Spring Grass was so astonished she could barely comment. She’d never expected her mistress to know about incense. Wasn’t the second young lady only versed in rudimentary texts? How could she know about incense too? In just a few days, she’d learned so much—just days ago, she couldn’t even write!

Seeing Spring Grass’s reverent gaze, Xu Ruojin smiled wryly. “Impressive? What’s the use? Just wait for the scolding later.”

No sooner had she spoken than Lady Bi’s carriage began to move.

Madam Yang, who had been all smiles, turned sharply, hands on her hips, berating:

“You wretched girl, how dare you contradict Lady Bi? Are you trying to ruin yourself? Do you want your father to lose his post? Do you believe I won’t tear that mouth of yours apart?”